Dispositional Traits

Sad and happy masks

Dispositional traits are notable at birth, observable across all mammals, and are neurobiologically based. Predictive of behavior and mental and physical health conditions, dispositional traits are also associated with clinical pain experiences and pain-related functioning. Our research investigates the  influence of dispositional traits on chronic pain and health outcomes. Individualizing interventions based on temperament represents an important target to improve treatment compliance. Additionally,  as temperament is malleable across the life-span, interventions that aim at modifying specific traits represent a critical and essential target to improve chronic pain treatment.

Associated Publications:

Dispositional traits help explain individual differences in relationships between a radiographic knee osteoarthritis measure, pain, and physical function. PMID: 38516228

Vulnerable Dispositional Traits and Chronic Pain: Predisposing but Not Predetermining. PMID: 34856411

Affect Balance Style, Experimental Pain Sensitivity, and Pain-Related Responses. PMID: 22367502

Affect and Low Back Pain: More to Consider Than the Influence of Negative Affect Alone. PMID: 26889620